Atherton Police Chief issues statement on recent residential burglaries

Editor’s note: Atherton Chief of Police Steven D McCulley sent this statement to residents. While Atherton centric, it has tips to prevent burglaries that apply to other local towns:

I want to offer an update on the recent increase in residential burglaries in our community and share how we can continue strengthening our safety efforts together. Over the past several months, we have provided guidance on steps that make a meaningful difference in discouraging these crimes. Many of you have taken those steps, and it has helped. At the same time, several recent incidents highlight opportunities where simple precautions can further reduce risk.

Our officers are working diligently. We have increased directed patrols, expanded investigative efforts, and continued to build out proactive crime-prevention programs. Even with these enhanced measures, we know that the most effective approach combines our work with consistent actions by residents. Your involvement remains a key part of keeping Atherton safe.

What We Are Seeing in Recent Cases

A number of recent burglaries involved circumstances such as:

• Doors, windows, and side gates left unlocked.

• Houses left dark inside and outside.

• Valuables kept in easily identifiable locations.

• Safes placed in primary bedrooms or offices.

• Alarm systems, if present, not armed at the time of the crime.

• Cameras not set to record or send alerts.

• Access points such as side yards and rear gates left darkened and unsecured.

These are conditions that create opportunities that organized burglary crews look for as they scout neighborhoods. They leave properties less hardened and identifiable as targets.

Steps You Can Take Today

A few consistent practices make a strong difference:

1. Lock all doors, windows, and side gates whenever you leave.

2. Store valuables and safes in less predictable, less visible areas.

3. Arm your alarm system, even for sho11 outings.

4. Confirm your cameras are recording and sending real-time notifications.

5. Use lighting timers for both interior and exterior lights to eliminate dark areas.

6. Consider subscribing to the Town’s alarm monitoring program for the fastest police dispatch.

7. Report suspicious activity right away. Even small details matter.

What Your Police Department Is Doing

We are continuing to increase patrol visibility, deepen investigative work, coordinate closely with regional partners, expanding the Bait House Burglary Detection program, and evaluating every case to identify patterns and suspects. We have already adapted our deployment strategies based on recent activity and will continue refining our approach.